I haven't tried many 'stiffer' beers but I find that once you break th 6 - 7% alcohol barrier in a beer you begin to taste the alcohol. Not pleasant for me. Perhaps this technique helps to mask that? I am not familiar.

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With great power comes Awesome irresponsibility.

Murph, that's a gross generalization. Many of the 8% or greater beers I've had were wonderfully balanced. Belgian ales are a fine example.

I am sure you are absolutely correct. I did say I was not familiar. I was actually more or less just fishing for more details about how High Gravity beers work but I can see how my choice of words sounded negative.

Hey, if I can say I am expanding my horizons... and drink beer at the same time... I look forward to being corrected.

Can anyone recommend something that might be easily found here in Easter Canada? A more domesticated import, if you will, if you can excuse the conundrum....

I really enjoy the refreshing nature of the few German and Belgium beers I can find at our local Liquor stores. Choice is rather limited though as in my province, all liquor sales are still regulated to be sold in "provincially owned and regulated" liquor stores and two or three private stores that have to follow the same pricing and inventory guidelines.

Sadly we have no small private wine or liquor boutiques to explore. I make a point to try new beers and wines when I travel as it is often my only chance.

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With great power comes Awesome irresponsibility.